Game Holidays in South Africa

South Africa offers magnificent wildlife attractions. If you’re looking to experience nature’s wonders South Africa, look no further than its game reserves. These important sites play host to mammals such as the Impala antelope and Cape buffalo that are sought-after worldwide. The best way to experience one, is to lodge at a game reserve camp. We’ve researched the crème de la crème options available, so you don’t have to.

Motswari Private Game Reserve is serene and intimate with no more than 30 guests present at any one time. This is not just a game a game reserve and safari to spot wondrous animals in the Savannah, but part of a family-run, all-inclusive campsite. You’ll stay in an individual bungalow, which vary based on price but always provide a comfortable place to relax after a hectic day up close to the ‘Big 5’ African game animals. This holiday gives you the opportunity to go on a leisurely swim in the swimming pool or go on game-drives and guided walks at any time of the day.

Best lodge: Geiger’s Camp, TripAdvisor rating: 5-star

Kruger National Park is the daddy of bird and game safari in South Africa, with neighbouring private game reserves. Accommodation is available nearby in Johannesburg. A classic game holiday destination is Temisana Lodges. A range of packages are available, such as 4-day tented safari lodges. A typical itinerary includes a bush walk to Olifants river and game drive to Motlala Game Reserve on one day and a full day at Kruger the next.

Best lodge: Temisana Game Lodge, TripAdvisor rating: 5-star

Sabi Sands Game Reserve is famed for its luxurious lodges from which to venture on memorable game drives and bush-walks under the guidance of professional armed rangers. The reserve forms part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a growing area of green land that currently covers six million acres and incorporates the famous Kruger National Park. The lodges on the reserve are the largest range of luxury lodges in Africa. Sabi Sands is advertised as child-friendly, so perfect for a family safari holiday too.

Best lodge: Chitwa Chitwa Lodge, TripAdvisor rating: 5-star

Landolozi Game Reserve has 5 state-of-the art camps to choose from. All have the same access to 34,000 acres of private land, but the Granite Suite has the added attractions of a river bar and cocktail lounge above Sand River. Game drives go to Mala Mala reserve and Sabi Sands, where wild animals are free to roam in the wilderness. Suites range from £850 to £1,335 per night- a bargain for the game and landscape viewing available.

Best lodge: Private Granite Suite, TripAdvisor rating: 5-star

Manyeleti Game Reserve has up to 5-star accomodation at Manyeleti camp. Three exclusive lodges are situated amidst ancient sycamore trees along a river bed. You’ll be in safe hands, as the camp is protected by the local Mnisi tribe. What’s more, the camp sits in the middle of five game reserves, making extensive game-drives all the more exciting.